Making Costco bacon wrapped chicken is a culinary delight that combines the savory flavor of bacon with the tender taste of chicken, all at an affordable price point thanks to the wholesale prices at Costco. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also relatively simple to prepare, making it perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. In this article, we will delve into the details of how to make this mouth-watering dish, exploring the ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Introduction to Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Bacon wrapped chicken is a classic dish that has gained popularity over the years due to its simplicity and flavorsome outcome. The concept is straightforward: wrapping chicken breasts or tenders with bacon and then cooking them until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. However, achieving perfection requires a bit more finesse, including selecting the right ingredients, understanding cooking techniques, and being mindful of presentation.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making Costco bacon wrapped chicken, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final result. Here are a few key factors to consider:
- Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders. If using breasts, you might want to pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Bacon: Costco often offers a variety of bacon types. For this recipe, thicker cuts of bacon work better as they provide a crunchier texture and more intense flavor.
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary) can enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment with different seasoning combinations to find your favorite.
Preparing the Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Preparing bacon wrapped chicken involves a few simple steps:
To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your chicken and bacon. If your chicken breasts are large, consider cutting them in half or into tender-sized pieces for more even cooking and better bacon coverage.
Next, season your chicken with your chosen herbs and spices. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor.
Now, it’s time to wrap your chicken with bacon. The general rule of thumb is to use 2-3 pieces of bacon per chicken breast, depending on the size of the breast and the thickness of the bacon. Start at one end of the chicken and wrap the bacon around it, securing the bacon with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken pieces.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook bacon wrapped chicken, including baking, grilling, and pan-frying. Each method produces a slightly different result, so feel free to experiment to find your preferred texture and flavor.
- Baking: Place the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Grilling: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling is a great option. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Pan-frying: For a crisper bacon exterior, pan-frying is an excellent method. Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Achieving the perfect bacon wrapped chicken involves a few additional considerations:
- Temperature Control: Always ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illness.
- Bacon Crispiness: For extra crispy bacon, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Variations: Don’t be afraid to add some variety to your dish. Consider adding a glaze made from honey, BBQ sauce, or maple syrup towards the end of the cooking time for a sweet and savory contrast.
Presentation and Serving
Presentation can make a significant difference in the appeal of your dish. Once your bacon wrapped chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Consider serving your bacon wrapped chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The smoky, savory flavor of the bacon pairs well with a variety of sides, offering endless possibilities for creativity and experimentation.
Conclusion
Making Costco bacon wrapped chicken is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. By following the steps outlined in this guide and experimenting with different seasonings and cooking methods, you can create a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. Remember, the key to a great bacon wrapped chicken lies in the quality of your ingredients, the care with which you prepare the dish, and your attention to detail during the cooking process. With a little practice, you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality bacon wrapped chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What are the ingredients needed to make Costco bacon wrapped chicken?
To make delicious Costco bacon wrapped chicken, you will need a few simple ingredients. The main ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thick-cut bacon, and a sweet and sticky sauce. You will also need some basic pantry staples like brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Additionally, you can customize the recipe with your favorite seasonings and spices to give it a personal touch. With these ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
The quality of the ingredients is also important to ensure the best flavor and texture. Look for thick-cut bacon that is smoked or applewood-flavored to give your dish a rich and savory flavor. Choose fresh and plump chicken breasts that are free of added hormones and preservatives. For the sauce, you can use a combination of store-bought and homemade ingredients. A mixture of brown sugar, honey, and soy sauce creates a sweet and sticky glaze that complements the smoky flavor of the bacon perfectly. By using high-quality ingredients, you can elevate the flavor and texture of your Costco bacon wrapped chicken to the next level.
How do I prepare the chicken breasts for wrapping with bacon?
To prepare the chicken breasts for wrapping with bacon, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Next, trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken breasts to ensure they are even and flat. Season the chicken breasts with your favorite seasonings and spices, such as garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your dish a fragrant and aromatic flavor.
Once the chicken breasts are seasoned, lay them flat on a clean surface and prepare to wrap them with bacon. Cut the thick-cut bacon into strips that are long enough to wrap around the chicken breasts. Make sure to leave some overlap between the bacon strips to ensure they are secure and won’t come undone during cooking. You can also use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place if needed. By preparing the chicken breasts properly, you can ensure that they are cooked evenly and that the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
What is the best way to wrap the chicken breasts with bacon?
Wrapping the chicken breasts with bacon is a crucial step in making delicious Costco bacon wrapped chicken. To wrap the chicken breasts, start by placing a chicken breast on a flat surface and laying a few strips of bacon on top of it. Make sure to leave some overlap between the bacon strips to ensure they are secure and won’t come undone during cooking. Wrap the bacon strips around the chicken breast, securing them with toothpicks if needed. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken breasts and bacon strips.
The key to wrapping the chicken breasts with bacon is to make sure the bacon is secure and evenly distributed. You want to ensure that the bacon is wrapped tightly around the chicken breast to prevent it from coming undone during cooking. At the same time, you don’t want to wrap the bacon too tightly, as this can cause it to steam instead of crisp up. By wrapping the bacon strips around the chicken breasts evenly and securely, you can create a delicious and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
How do I cook the bacon wrapped chicken breasts in the oven?
To cook the bacon wrapped chicken breasts in the oven, place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Drizzle the chicken breasts with a sweet and sticky sauce, such as a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and soy sauce. Bake the chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. You can also broil the chicken breasts for an additional 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon and create a caramelized glaze.
The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts to ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts. Once the chicken breasts are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. By cooking the bacon wrapped chicken breasts in the oven, you can create a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Can I make Costco bacon wrapped chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?
Yes, you can make Costco bacon wrapped chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. To refrigerate, cook the bacon wrapped chicken breasts as instructed and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap the chicken breasts in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, cook the bacon wrapped chicken breasts as instructed and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap the chicken breasts in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen bacon wrapped chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated or frozen bacon wrapped chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove the chicken breasts from the refrigerator or freezer and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Drizzle the chicken breasts with a little bit of oil or sauce to prevent drying out. Bake the chicken breasts in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy. You can also microwave the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through. By making Costco bacon wrapped chicken ahead of time, you can save time and effort during the week and enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
What are some variations of the Costco bacon wrapped chicken recipe that I can try?
There are many variations of the Costco bacon wrapped chicken recipe that you can try to give it a personal touch. One variation is to use different types of bacon, such as maple bacon or peppered bacon, to give the dish a unique flavor. You can also add some dried herbs or spices, such as thyme or cumin, to the chicken breasts before wrapping them with bacon. Another variation is to use a different type of sauce, such as BBQ sauce or honey mustard, to give the dish a sweet and tangy flavor. You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
By trying different variations of the Costco bacon wrapped chicken recipe, you can create a unique and delicious dish that suits your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different cooking methods, such as grilling or pan-frying, to give the dish a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Additionally, you can serve the bacon wrapped chicken with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad, to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. By getting creative with the recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for any occasion.
What are some tips for making the best Costco bacon wrapped chicken?
To make the best Costco bacon wrapped chicken, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as thick-cut bacon and fresh chicken breasts, to ensure the best flavor and texture. Second, don’t overcook the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to dry out and become tough. Third, use a sweet and sticky sauce, such as a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and soy sauce, to give the dish a rich and caramelized flavor. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of the recipe, such as using different types of bacon or adding some dried herbs or spices, to give the dish a unique and personal touch.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Additionally, make sure to cook the bacon wrapped chicken breasts at the right temperature, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the dish. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken breasts are cooked to a safe internal temperature. By paying attention to these details, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a little practice and patience, you can become a master of making delicious Costco bacon wrapped chicken that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.